Tinubu Mourns Christopher Kolade

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigeria’s renowned diplomat, broadcaster, and corporate leader, Dr Christopher Kolade, describing him as “one of Nigeria’s intellectual treasures” and a symbol of integrity, patriotism, and selfless service.

In a heartfelt tribute he issued on Thursday, the President said Dr Kolade, who died at the age of 92, was “an inimitable figure in Nigeria’s enterprise history” and a towering personality in both the public and private sectors.

“Dr Kolade was a custodian of our enterprise history, especially concerning corporate governance and human resources management. He was a principal figure in reputable institutions like the Lagos Business School,” President Tinubu stated.

He described the late elder statesman as “among the finest of men—exceptionally brilliant, statesmanly, diligent, and with unimpeachable integrity.”

Dr Kolade, who served as Chief Executive and later Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, was widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s foremost advocates of transparency and accountability in corporate and public life.

President Tinubu said his contributions to governance and leadership training were “foundational to the evolution of modern corporate ethics in Nigeria.”

“He was not only a boardroom icon but also a patriot and an uncompromising advocate of transparency and accountability in governance,” the President noted.

The tribute further highlighted Kolade’s distinguished service record, from his early career as a colonial-era education officer to his later roles as Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation and Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.

“Dr Kolade served Nigeria dutifully, with honesty and great dedication. He left ineffaceable stamps of distinction in every endeavour—whether in the boardroom, on national panels, or in public office”, Tinubu said.

President Tinubu also commended Kolade’s philanthropic legacy through the Christopher Kolade Foundation, especially his long-standing support for sickle cell patients.

“He donated a chunk of his earnings to that noble cause, reflecting his compassion and devotion to humanity,” the President recalled.

While describing his passing as “agonising,” President Tinubu said the late elder statesman’s life should be celebrated for its enduring impact and inspiration.

“Dr Kolade lived an exemplary life and immortalised himself through his uncommon service to our nation and humanity. He will remain an inspiration for us and for many generations. He was the representation of the true Nigerian—selfless and resilient,” the President stated.

He prayed for the repose of Dr Kolade’s soul and for comfort to his family, colleagues, and the many institutions shaped by his leadership.

“May God Almighty, whom he served so faithfully, grant him eternal rest,” President Tinubu said.

The Nation